Discover the top holiday highlights in Schenectady! Our guide features all the must-see events and activities for a festive season to remember. From locals to holiday tourists, this guide is your companion for exploring Schenectady's festive season.
One event that brings the community together is the New York State's Holiday Tree Lighting, a charming occasion where the city gathers to illuminate a grand tree. With the Schenectady Holiday Parade showcasing a vibrant procession of floats and performers, it's a perfect family-friendly attraction. And the Festival of Trees is something you definitely don't want to miss, offering a dazzling display of beautifully decorated trees throughout the community. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Top Holiday Events In and Around Schenectady
- New York State's Holiday Tree Lighting (Albany)
- Schenectady Holiday Parade
- Festival of Trees
- City of Albany Tree Lighting Ceremony and Open House (Albany)
- Northeast Ballet's Nutcracker at Proctors
- Troy Victorian Stroll (Troy)
- CBS 6 Melodies of Christmas at Proctors
- Daily Gazette Holiday Parade
- Nacre Dance Group -- Nutcracker at The Egg (Albany)
- Christmas in the Air at Empire State Aerosciences Museum (Glenville)
See these and even more events listed below!
Schenectady Holiday Light Displays
Schenectady Illuminocity
What to Expect:
Friendly, competitive holiday decorating contest with cash prizes for not-for-profits.
Description:
Schenectady Illuminocity is a holiday lighting experience featuring a friendly, competitive decorating contest among downtown properties and local not-for-profits. Participating properties light up their buildings to celebrate the Schenectady Holiday Parade and support community organizations.
Where: Schenectady | More Info: Schenectady Illuminocity
New York State's Holiday Tree Lighting
What to Expect:
Special tree lighting ceremony with fireworks and skating performances.
Description:
The New York State Holiday Tree Lighting at the Empire State Plaza features a tree lighting ceremony, fireworks, and a special performance by the Hudson Mohawk Figure Skating Club. Enjoy free family activities, including holiday-themed arts and crafts, meet and greets with Santa, and live music performances.
Where: Albany | More Info: New York State's Holiday Tree Lighting
Holiday Lighted Tractor Parade
What to Expect:
Unique tractor light displays through historic village streets.
Description:
The 12th Annual Holiday Lighted Tractor Parade in Greenwich, New York, features over 70 lighted tractors displaying festive lights as they travel through the historic village. This event, supported by the Greater Greenwich Chamber of Commerce, has become one of the largest and most popular parades in Washington County, providing a scholarship to a graduating senior from Greenwich Central School pursuing a degree in agriculture.
Where: Greenwich | More Info: Holiday Lighted Tractor Parade
Schenectady Holiday Markets and Shopping
Troy Victorian Stroll
What to Expect:
Holiday celebration with live music, street food, and festive decorations.
Description:
The Troy Victorian Stroll is a community holiday tradition that transforms historic downtown Troy into a bygone Victorian era. The event features a variety of attractions, including local artisans, street food vendors, live music performances, and a window decorating contest. It culminates with the City of Troy’s Christmas tree lighting ceremony.
Where: Troy | More Info: Troy Victorian Stroll
Schenectady Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Daily Gazette Holiday Parade
What to Expect:
Largest nighttime holiday parade in the Northeast.
Description:
The 55th Annual Holiday Parade in Downtown Schenectady features sparkling floats, glittering firetrucks, marching bands, and dance troupes, celebrating the holiday season with a vibrant display of community spirit.
Where: Schenectady | More Info: Daily Gazette Holiday Parade
CBS 6 Melodies of Christmas at Proctors
What to Expect:
Youth orchestra performance benefiting childhood cancer center.
Description:
CBS 6 Melodies of Christmas at Proctors features a concert by The Empire State Youth Orchestra, benefiting the Melodies Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders. The event is held on the main stage at Proctors Theatre, showcasing a blend of holiday music and community spirit.
Where: Schenectady | More Info: CBS 6 Melodies of Christmas at Proctors
Northeast Ballet's Nutcracker at Proctors
What to Expect:
World-class ballet performance with elaborate sets and costumes.
Description:
Northeast Ballet's annual production of The Nutcracker features international guest artists and regional talent, showcasing over 100 performers in a holiday celebration.
Where: Schenectady | More Info: Northeast Ballet's Nutcracker at Proctors
Nacre Dance Group -- Nutcracker at The Egg
What to Expect:
World-class ballet performance with modern dance twists and elaborate sets.
Description:
Nacre Dance Group presents a unique blend of ballet and modern dance in their production of The Nutcracker, featuring intricate choreography and elaborate costumes.
Where: Albany | More Info: Nacre Dance Group -- Nutcracker at The Egg
Breakfast with Santa at The Edison Downtown
What to Expect:
Intimate breakfast gathering with Santa Claus.
Description:
Join us for a delightful Breakfast with Santa at The Edison Downtown, where families can enjoy a hearty meal and quality time with Santa Claus in a charming setting.
Where: Albany | More Info: Breakfast with Santa at The Edison Downtown
Schenectady Holiday Giving Opportunities
Holiday Vibes Toy Drive
What to Expect:
Community-driven toy collection and distribution for underprivileged children.
Description:
The Holiday Vibes Toy Drive is a community-driven initiative collecting toys for children in need during the holiday season. It involves traveling across California to collect and distribute essential items to support local families.
Where: Various | More Info: Holiday Vibes Toy Drive
Schenectady Other Holiday Activities
Schenectady Holiday Parade
What to Expect:
Largest nighttime holiday parade in the Northeast.
Description:
The Schenectady Holiday Parade is a nighttime event featuring sparkling floats, glittering firetrucks, marching bands, and dance troupes, culminating in a visit from Santa Claus. It is a community-driven celebration that embodies the spirit of the holiday season.
Where: Schenectady | More Info: Schenectady Holiday Parade
Festival of Trees
What to Expect:
Community-driven holiday celebration with artistically decorated fir trees.
Description:
The Festival of Trees at the Schenectady County Historical Society features over 70 artistically decorated fir trees, showcasing local artists' and businesses' creativity. Visitors can vote for their favorite trees in various categories, and all proceeds benefit the society's programs and services.
Where: Schenectady | More Info: Festival of Trees
City of Albany Tree Lighting Ceremony and Open House
What to Expect:
Community tree lighting ceremony following a festive parade.
Description:
The Downtown Twice Around Parade and Community Tree Lighting Ceremony is a family-friendly event in Historic Downtown Albany, featuring a festive parade with entries like the Albany Trolley, Horse Drawn Wagon, and Santa riding Albany's Antique Fire Truck. The parade route spans 8 blocks, and attendees can enjoy ample viewing space. Following the parade, there will be a short break before the Community Tree Lighting Ceremony, which offers ample viewing space at the Two Rivers Market parking lot.
Where: Albany | More Info: City of Albany Tree Lighting Ceremony and Open House
Christmas in the Air at Empire State Aerosciences Museum
What to Expect:
Aviation-themed holiday celebration with historic aircraft and educational exhibits.
Description:
Celebrate the spirit of aviation with a unique blend of historical aircraft, educational exhibits, and interactive programs at the Empire State Aerosciences Museum.
Where: Glenville | More Info: Christmas in the Air at Empire State Aerosciences Museum
Festive Fun in Nearby Cities!
Discover Holiday events in hundreds of cities worldwide. Check out these nearby locations for more festive fun!
- Rotterdam (2 miles)
- Clifton Park (9 miles)
- Latham (10 miles)
- West Albany (12 miles)
- Troy (14 miles)
- Albany (15 miles)
- Saratoga Springs (20 miles)
- Queensbury (42 miles)
- Pittsfield (43 miles)